2011 NFL Trade Speculation: The Latest on Vincent Jackson

The San Diego Chargers have been reluctant in signing Vincent Jackson to a long-term contract, but they have designated him as the “franchise tag” for the 2011 season.

This could be a risky proposition, as there is no guarantee that this provision will be included in the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Jackson could leave as an unrestricted free agent or sign the tender offer and earn between $10-11 million this season.

It might be to the Chargers advantage to seek a trade partner and acquire some value for him, rather than losing him entirely after the season. And to land Jackson, a team will have to exchange a big-time trade package and money contract to acquire his services.

Let’s take a look at the possible future destinations that Vincent Jackson could be playing football in the not too distant future.

Seattle Seahawks

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The Seattle Seahawks are slowly becoming a Super Bowl contender, as they have two promising receivers (Golden Tate and Mike Williams) on the roster. It would be wise for them to acquire a proven wideout that could lead them to the next level. Pete Carroll isn’t bashful to add a high profile athlete into the mix if it will add wins to his record.

Washington Redskins

If the Washington Redskins have any thoughts of contending for the NFC East Division title this season, then they will have to acquire a legitimate wide receiver to lengthen the field.

Jackson would be a good option, as Santana Moss is eligible to become a free agent once the CBA is reached. Mike Shanahan loves receivers that have size and good hands, and Jackson is also a great route runner with above-average speed. He could become that viable option downfield that Shanahan has been looking for since his arrival in DC.

Chicago Bears

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The Chicago Bears need a big-play receiver that will complement their speedy wideouts (Johnny Knox and Devin Hester) on the opposite side of the field. It makes sense for them to acquire a wide receiver in free agency, as GM Jerry Angelo doesn’t want to trade away any more high draft choices.

Jackson will bring size and being a true No. 1 receiver into the mix. He will also be a welcome relief for Jay Cutler on the field, and become his top receiver in the red zone.

Oakland Raiders

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Arguably, the Oakland Raiders have the lest-productive receiving corp in the NFL, and yet, they came out of nowhere to become a division contender in 2010. Jacob Ford and Louis Murphy have showed some promise, but this team desperately needs a playmaker at the wide receiver position. Signing Jackson will give the Raiders a veteran player to help nurture the young receivers into their true potential.

New England Patriots

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If you’ve watched the New England Patriots’ last two playoff appearances, it’s pretty glaring that this team is missing a true No. 1 receiver on the roster. No top-rated defense is fearful of their passing game.

Tom Brady’s little mighty mites (Wes Welker and Julian Feldman) just couldn’t get separation from defenders, as a big-time receiver will open up the middle of the field for them to be successful. Jackson can integrate himself into the offense and become a viable option downfield.

New York Jets

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Few positions in the NFL have created so much buzz as who will line up at the wide receiver position in the New York Jets’ offensive set.

They threw the ball a bit more last season, as they had two explosive targets (Santonio Holmes and Braylon Edwards) on the field. But, both are eligible to become free agents, and regardless if the Jets bring back one into the fold, they will need to acquire another elite receiver.

Jackson has the combination of size and play-making ability to stretch the field for Mark Sanchez to be dominant. And isn’t this where all disgruntled Chargers (LaDainian Tomlinson and Antonio Cromartie) go to resume their careers, anyways?